Threat to brewery’s future in Bargates plans
OWNER FEARS THERE WILL NOT BE ENOUGH LOADING SPACE AT THE BACK OF PREMISES IN NEW PROPOSALS
BOSSES at a popular Burton brewery are in talks with the developers behind the controversial Bargates plans over fears they might not have enough room for beer trucks and may have to close.
Geoff Mumford, of the Burton Bridge Brewery and pub, in Bridge Street, previously told Staffordshire live that he feared the new proposals for the Bargates did not allow enough room for loading and unloading at the back of the brewery.
He says the plans in their current form threaten the future of the brewery, but the attached pub will be able to operate regardless by taking deliveries from independent breweries in smaller vans.
It has now been revealed that Jessup Build Develop, the developer behind the Bargates proposals, has contacted the brewery to work out its rights of way and what it needs to stay open.
The pub and brewery back onto the Bargates site, off High Street, where there are plans to build 95 homes and a commercial area fronting the River Trent.
It is the second time Jessup has applied to East Staffordshire Borough Council for permission to revamp the former shopping centre and bowling alley site.
Jessups’ second plan, submitted late last year, saw the number of homes on the site cut.
Mr Mumford said: “Since 1982, when Bruce Wilkinson and I started the business, we have used the area to the rear of the brewery for loading/off loading our delivery vehicles as well as off loading vehicles bringing in raw materials.
“In legal terms this would be described as using it without let or hindrance.
“When the development of Bargates was first mooted I had a meeting with the then head of service at the borough council, where he assured me that provision would be made, in any development, for us to continue using the area. The first planning application by Jessup did take this into account but this application does not.
“When we were given planning permission for the pub, deliveries at the front of the pub were ruled out as part of the planning permission. We are not sure why.
“If the new application is passed, it will stifle our business, putting our long-term six employees out of work at a time when jobs will be hard to come by. This would be a sorry end to a profitable business (the brewery) that brings money into the town as a result of its countrywide trading.
“At the moment, the brewery is closed down due to Covid-19 restrictions on pubs and bars. No market, no production.”
Mr Mumford has revealed he has officially objected to the plans.
A spokesman for Jessup said: “Jessup do not feel it appropriate to address the comments made during the planning process.”
An East Staffordshire Borough Council spokesperson said: “Bargates is a live planning application which will be considered by the planning committee.
“Jessups have been in contact with Burton Bridge Brewery to accommodate its right of way and other needs where possible.”